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Dental Sedation Options

Millions of people avoid the dentist each year because of bad experiences in the past or fear of pain. To get the dental care you need, you do not have to “toughen up” or “grin and bear it.” At Fife Dental Care in Rio Rancho, NM, we provide sedation dentistry so that you can completely relax during your exam or procedure.

Dr. Fife is licensed by the State of New Mexico to provide oral conscious sedation, which includes a range of sedation options

Conscious Sedation

a mild sedative is administered in conjunction with a local anesthetic for pain relief. This option allows the patient to be completely conscious and respond to the dentist but feel very relaxed.

Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen

A mild sedative delivered by inhalation. The sedative effects of these gases begin to dissipate as soon as the mask is removed, so there is no recovery time. This is an excellent option for children and adults who must return to work.

Oral conscious sedation

A moderate sedative (benzodiazepine class) is prescribed, and additional doses may be administered during your visit. Under this type of sedation, a patient is conscious but may not remember everything about the appointment. Patients require special monitoring during the appointment and must have someone to drive them home. This option is available for adults only.

Patients undergoing sedation dentistry should avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the procedure and eat lightly before and after the treatment to minimize nausea.

Are You a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

There are a number of reasons to consider sedation dentistry, such as:

  • To increase comfort during a long procedure
  • To minimize unconscious or uncontrollable movements during your procedure
  • To counter a sensitive gag reflex
  • To overcome dental phobia when other relaxation strategies are not enough

Dr. Fife will review your medical history to make sure it is complete and accurate in order to determine if you are a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Ideal candidates are people in relatively good health and whose medications (if any) do not have any contraindications with those used for sedation.

If fear of the dentist or fear of pain has compromised your dental health, sedation dentistry can allow you to get the anxiety-free dental care you need. Contact Fife Dental Care in Rio Rancho, NM to learn more about your sedation options and find a treatment that is right for you.

New Patients & Emergency Appointments Welcome!